KU Law Traditions

Diversity in Law Banquet

The Diversity in Law Banquet is one of the most important fundraising events for the Minority Scholarship Fund. Students, faculty, alumni and friends celebrate the many contributions made to legal education and the legal profession by people of color. A keynote speaker — usually from the ranks of KU Law's diverse alumni — provides a message at the banquet.

Bluebook Relays

Each fall, first-year law students participate in the Barber Emerson Bluebook Relays. The competition, sponsored by a Lawrence law firm, tests legal research skills learned in the Lawyering program. Working in teams, students locate references in the library and write the citation in correct Bluebook format. The point system rewards speed, accuracy and citation skills.

Pub Night

Pub Night, sponsored by Women in Law, originated in the 1980s. Proceeds from tickets and live and silent auctions go to a public interest stipend for law students and local charities that provide support and assistance to women and children. The highlight of the evening for many years has been the Moody Bluebooks, a rock band made up of law school faculty, staff and students.

Graduation

Law school graduation is a joyous weekend graduates, faculty, families and friends. Activities begin with the hooding ceremony at the Lied Center, where each graduate is individually recognized. An open house follows at Green Hall. The next day, graduates participate in the time-honored walk down the Hill during the all-university commencement ceremony at Memorial Stadium.

Walk to "Old" Green Hall

The Walk to "Old" Green Hall began as the last class ended in Spring 1978. Nostalgic law students who had spent their first two years in "old" Green Hall and moved to a new building in the fall of 1977 persuaded Professor Paul Wilson to lead them back to their original home for reminiscing and reflecting on law school history. The tradition has continued, with longtime professor Webb Hecker now leading the walk.

Thanksgiving Food Drive

The entire law school participates in the annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, coordinated by the Black Law Students Association. BLSA members solicit contributions from law school faculty, students and staff to provide turkeys and all the trimmings for Lawrence residents in need. Faculty allow a "pass" to students who bring food for the drive, and first-year small sections compete for the "most food donated" award.